Heaven And Hell: A History of the Afterlife by Bart D. Ehrman

Merits: Bart D. Ehrman is a leading authority on the New Testament and early Christianity history. He has authored more than 30 books and is a Professor of Religious Studies at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Material: This book explores the history of the concept we know as the afterlife, a history that stretches as far back as the epic of Gilgamesh and reaches into modern times. Was there ever a unified vision of said afterlife or a mashup of competing views based on cultural and social conditions of their respective times?

Grade: N.S.F.C. This book explores the origins of religion’s primary bargaining chip, promises of an afterlife. It begs the question, if an offer of salvation promises punishment if declined, is it salvation, or extortion?